-by Melissa DelaCalzada

For family caregivers of aging loved ones, and patients, in San Diego, the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is a commonly asked question. Many times these words are used interchangeably; however, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are two different things.

Dementia is not a specific disease; rather, dementia is a general term or syndrome used to describe memory loss or other brain dysfunctions that can greatly interfere with daily life. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke defines dementia as “a collection of symptoms that can be caused by a number of disorders that affect the brain.”

Memory loss alone does not mean a person has dementia. Dementia is diagnosed if two or more brain functions (such as memory and language skills) are notably impaired without loss of consciousness. Although dementia is rare before age 60, it can affect a person at any age. In some cases, dementia can be reversed; in other cases, it cannot be reversed.

What are the symptoms of dementia?

• Memory loss (that affects daily life) – the person may forget his way back home from the shops or may find it hard to remember what he/she did earlier in the day.
• Communicative difficulties – the person finds it harder to talk read and/or write.
• Moodiness – as parts of the brain that control emotion become damaged, a person can become extremely moody. Coupled with fear and anxiety, the person can become frightened about what is happening to him/her.

Reading this, some people may think “I experience memory loss…do I have dementia?” Again, memory loss alone does not mean an aging person has dementia. The American Medical Association notes differentiations between aging and dementia. For example, a sign of aging may include getting lost in familiar territory and pausing shortly to remember your way. A sign of dementia may be getting lost in familiar territory while out walking or driving and may take hours to return home.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Although there are many forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form and irreversible. A progressive, fatal brain disease, Alzheimer’s destroys brain cells, which ultimately destroys memory and thinking skills, causing the inability to carry out the simplest tasks of daily living.

The Alzheimer’s Association offers 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease:

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
3. Difficulty completing tasks at home, work or leisure
4. Confusion with time or place
5. Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
8. Decreased or poor judgment
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
10. Changes in mood and personality

If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your aging loved one, or if you are experiencing these symptoms yourself, talk your doctor. The Alzheimer’s Association website offers information, resources, and talking points to help you have the conversation with your doctor or your loved ones. Early detection can provide a myriad of resources, treatment options, and support services for patients and family caregivers.

For Alzheimer’s disease resources and support in San Diego, contact:

The George C. Glenner Alzheimer’s Family Center, Inc
(800) 736-6674
(Centers in Hillcrest, Encinitas, and South Bay areas of San Diego County)

Alzheimer’s Association of San Diego County
Local: (858) 492-4400 or 24-Hour Helpline: (800) 272-3900